Electric meters are now installed in every apartment, office or administrative building. But sometimes, when it comes to changing the old counter to a new one, we go to the store and get lost in the abundance of models, not knowing what to choose.
From this article you will learn about how a single-phase counter differs from a three- phase meter, and how to choose exactly such a device that suits you.
What counters are there?
So, any household electric meter is needed in order to measure the amount of electricity consumed for a certain period of time. The object of this measurement is AC.
Counters, as you know, are one- and three-phase - this is their main difference. The first are used mainly for apartment and private houses, garages, cottages, office space. They are suitable for electrical networks with a working voltage of 220 V and a corresponding frequency of 50 Hz. But three-phase meters are installed where the mains voltage is 380 V: for example, in large industrial plants. But you should know that these devices can also support single-phase accounting, that is, it can be used in a network with a voltage of both 220 and 380 V. This is convenient for owners of large houses with energy-intensive equipment installed there (electric boilers, heaters , P.). For this purpose a household three-phase meter is designed.
In addition, these devices can be inductive or electronic. Counters using the principle of electromagnetic induction are more common. They are equipped with a rotating disk, in contrast to electronic counters, where such an element is a flashing indicator light.
And, finally, counters are one- and multi-tariff. Very popular today, such models as a three-phase two-rate counter. However, the expediency of its acquisition and installation should be calculated individually, since not all regions have differentiated tariff systems.
Three-phase electric meter - features of choice
Before buying a counter, read the following information that can make you the right choice:
- To find out what kind of device you need, look at the scoreboard of your counter. If there is a figure of 220, then everything is simple - safely purchase a single-phase meter. If it is a figure of 220/380, you will need to purchase a three-phase model.
- To operate the electric meter in a room where the air temperature can drop below 0 ° C, select models whose passports indicate the appropriate temperature limits. The usual household meters, as a rule, are not designed for minus temperatures.
- When buying a counter in a store, be sure to check the presence of seals on it. If one seal is usually installed on electronic models, there should be at least two seals on inductive ones. At the same time, at least one of them is a seal of the boss, while the second one can be an imprint of the manufacturer's OEM. The seals themselves are mounted on the fastening screws and can be external (made of lead or plastic) or internal (filled in the cavity with a black or red mastic).
Seals should be clearly imprinted and be free from any mechanical damage. - Another important point when buying a three-phase meter is the period through which it will have to be handed over to the next gospodarka. For old induction models, this is usually 6-8 years, and for newer electronic models - up to 16 years. Please note: if the calibration interval specified in the meter's passport is significantly less, this may indicate the improper quality of the device you buy.
- And do not forget that before replacing the old meter, as well as after installing a new one, it is necessary to invite a specialist from a local electricity sales organization that will seal your three-phase meter.